New Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrators to Headline 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Beginning Nov. 24

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

The time for fa-la-la-la-la is just around the corner! To celebrate, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth at Walt Disney World Resort brings the joyful season to life with magical traditions, jubilant entertainment, delicious dishes and sparkling merchandise.

Grab a mug of hot cocoa and let’s take a look at all that’s coming!

NEW Celebrity Narrators Join EPCOT Candlelight Processional Alongside Returning Favorites

Long a guest favorite, the EPCOT Candlelight Processional is the retelling of the Christmas story by a narrator and a massive choir, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra, herald trumpets and the incredible Voices of Liberty. This spectacular event returns this year with more new celebrity narrators than ever before! Nine new voices join the ranks of captivating storytellers who share the universal message of this heartwarming story.

To plan your visit, here’s the full list of this year’s celebrity narrators:

  • Chrissy Metz (NEW): Nov. 24-25
  • Luis Fonsi (NEW): Nov. 26-27
  • Ann-Margret (NEW): Nov. 28-29
  • Simu Liu: Nov. 30-Dec. 2
  • John Stamos: Dec. 3-5
  • Neil Patrick Harris: Dec. 6-8
  • Marlee Matlin: Dec. 9-11
  • Brendan Fraser (NEW): Dec. 12-14
  • Eva Longoria (NEW): Dec. 15-16
  • Joey McIntyre (NEW): Dec. 17-18
  • Sterling K. Brown (NEW): Dec. 19-20
  • Jordan Fisher (NEW): Dec. 21-23
  • Steven Curtis Chapman: Dec. 24-26
  • Audra McDonald (NEW): Dec. 27-28
  • Lisa Ling: Dec. 29-30

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Open Oct. 17

Want to ensure your seat for the performance? There’s no better way than to book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. Choose from seven distinctive eateries, offering everything from character dining at Chip ‘N’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill Restaurant in The Land pavilion to signature dining at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion. With breakfast, lunch and dinner options, there’s something for everyone. For more information, including pricing and availability, visit the Disney Travel Agents website.

Santa Returns to the Odyssey Pavilion

Santa Claus himself will visit with guests at the Odyssey pavilion from Nov. 24 through Dec. 24. Don your festive best for the perfect photo op and make sure you’ve been nice! But that’s not all, because …

Storytellers From Around the World Share Tales and Traditions

… World Showcase comes alive with magical legends and lore as storytellers from around the globe captivate listeners with myriad tales. Celebrate the season with laughter in the Norway pavilion as a mischievous Barn Santa makes an appearance; observe the wonder of a Chinese Lion Dancer commemorating the Lunar New Year; join a fascinating journey to learn more about Hanukkah festivities around the world; and rediscover the magic of special moments as Pere Noel shares the delightful words of a child’s letter. As you stroll the park, don’t miss the beautiful and diverse décor throughout World Showcase – and beyond.

Even More Joy

To fill your cup up even more, sing along with the exuberant voices of JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season in World Showcase Plaza. With uplifting Gospel and R&B songs celebrating Christmas and Kwanzaa, the biggest challenge you’ll have will be standing still! And as a bonus, enjoy a sparkling boat tour through Living with the Land in World Nature, where the greenhouses will be decked out with twinkling holiday light displays.

Tantalizing Holiday Kitchens and a Decadent Cookie Stroll Highlight Seasonal Flavors

What’s a holiday without feasting? If tucking into delicious goodies is your favorite way to celebrate, then you’ve come to the right place. More than 15 Holiday Kitchens will entice your palate with treasured dishes that celebrate a panoply of global holiday cheer. While we can promise you that there will be plenty of returning favorites like Slow Roasted Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Cranberry Sauce, there are also scrumptious surprises in store. Keep an eye out for all the jolly details coming soon in the Disney Eats Foodie Guide.

Remember to save room for the delectable Holiday Cookie Stroll! There’s nothing better than exploring the sights and sounds of the festival with a sweet treat in hand. My family loves to try them all, and I know you will, too. Purchase five cookies from any of the official cookie stroll locations and collect the matching stamp for each cookie to add to your festival passport. Once you’ve collected five stamps, bring the stamped passport to the Holiday Sweet & Treats Holiday Kitchen and receive a specialty cookie. Since you can complete the stroll at your leisure through December 30, it’s the perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends every time you visit the festival.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt

Set off on an adventure with Olaf for his Holiday Traditions Expedition Scavenger Hunt, a fun way to explore World Showcase. Just purchase your map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations and seek out the “tradition” that Olaf has found in each pavilion. Whether or not you complete the quest, you can redeem your map at Creations Shop, Disney Traders or World Traveler at International Gateway for a special festival holiday keepsake.*

Note that to experience any in-park offerings, guests must have valid theme park admission and may need a theme park reservation depending on the type of admission and date of visit. The ability to visit a theme park is subject to the park’s capacity limitations.

From celebrating beloved and familiar traditions to learning about new ones, EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth is the perfect way to embrace the cheer and good will of the season. Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for more details now through the beginning of the festival.

*Redemption valid through Dec. 30 or while supplies last.

Perseverance Rover Tracks Debut at Mission: SPACE In Collaboration With NASA at EPCOT

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

Perseverance Rover tracks have debuted at Mission: SPACE at EPCOT after a collaboration between Imagineering and NASA.

The Mars sculpture is still in poor condition, with visible wear and tear on the red planet.

“NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory provided images captured by [the Perseverance rover] as reference for our artisans, a 3D print file to recreate sample tubes used on Mars, and loaned a prototype wheel of the Perseverance rover to create tread marks identical to those currently on Mars,” said Disney in a post on X.

EPCOT Perseverance Rover tracks 1

The old Spirit and Opportunity tracks disappeared after a pavement refurbishment back in August 2023.

Refreshment Port at Epcot: A Culinary Journey Through Global Flavors

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

Located in the heart of Epcot’s World Showcase at Walt Disney World Resort, the Refreshment Port is a delightful culinary stop that offers visitors a diverse and flavorful selection of international and American-inspired dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or a sweet treat, this dining destination has something to satisfy every palate.

The Refreshment Port is strategically positioned between the Canada Pavilion and the World Showcase Plaza, making it a convenient and accessible dining option for guests exploring the diverse cultures of Epcot’s World Showcase.

One of the standout offerings at the Refreshment Port is the classic Canadian dish, poutine. Served piping hot, this indulgent treat features crispy french fries topped with rich beef gravy and cheese curds. It’s a delicious and hearty snack that pays homage to Canada’s culinary traditions.

For those seeking familiar American flavors, the menu at the Refreshment Port includes classic chicken nuggets served with a choice of dipping sauces. These crispy nuggets are perfect for a quick and satisfying bite while you continue your exploration of the park.

The Refreshment Port often features seasonal and limited-time offerings that celebrate various international festivals and holidays at Epcot. These special dishes provide a unique and ever-changing culinary experience, giving guests a reason to return and discover something new each visit.

No visit to the Refreshment Port would be complete without trying one of its sweet desserts. The famous Croissant Doughnut is a popular choice, featuring a flaky, layered pastry that’s fried to perfection and can be customized with various toppings and drizzles. It’s a delectable treat that’s worth the indulgence.

To complement your meal, the Refreshment Port offers a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, bottled water, and a selection of alcoholic beverages. You can quench your thirst and stay refreshed while exploring the park.

One of the advantages of dining at the Refreshment Port is its convenient location. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll through the World Showcase or hurrying to catch a performance or attraction, this dining destination provides a quick and accessible pit stop for refueling and rejuvenation.

In conclusion, the Refreshment Port at Epcot is a culinary gem that celebrates the diverse flavors of the world while offering beloved American classics. With its convenient location, diverse menu, seasonal specialties, and sweet treats, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a satisfying and flavorful dining experience at Disney. Whether you’re a fan of poutine, chicken nuggets, or sweet indulgences, the Refreshment Port promises a culinary journey that will keep you energized and ready for more Epcot adventures. So take a break, savor the flavors, and recharge at this delightful dining destination.

Winnie the Pooh Meet and Greet Returns to Christopher Robin’s Bedroom in EPCOT U.K. Pavilion

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

The Winnie the Pooh meet and greet has reopened in Christopher Robin’s bedroom at the back of EPCOT’s U.K. Pavilion. This meet and greet space has been closed since 2020 when Walt Disney World theme parks shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the parks reopened, Pooh bear (and sometimes his friends) has only been appearing at EPCOT as a “sighting” near the Imagination! Pavilion.

The Christopher Robin’s bedroom meet and greet had actually been closed for three years before reopening in September 2019. The space features a wardrobe, desk, bed, and plenty of knick-knacks — including Christopher Robin’s yellow umbrella.

Pooh bear usually stands next to the bed, in front of the window — which shows the Hundred Acre Wood outside. When we visited, there was no PhotoPass photographer, but a Cast Member who could take your picture with your phone or camera.

winnie the pooh meet and greet epcot 2023 2260

https://x.com/WDWNT/status/1708860611491197065?s=20

Pooh and his friends also appear daily for meet and greets next to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom.

Le Cellier Steakhouse: A Gourmet Journey through Canadian Cuisine at Epcot

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

Within Epcot’s Canada Pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort, Le Cellier Steakhouse is a culinary gem that offers visitors a delectable taste of Canadian cuisine in a cozy and charming setting. This intimate, signature dining restaurant is renowned for its exceptional steaks, savory dishes, and fine Canadian wines.

From the moment you step inside Le Cellier Steakhouse, you are transported to a rustic Canadian cellar. The restaurant’s design and décor evoke the ambiance of a wine cellar, with low lighting, stone walls, and cozy, intimate seating. It’s an ideal setting for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

The star of the menu at Le Cellier Steakhouse is undoubtedly the exceptional selection of steaks. The restaurant is known for its perfectly cooked cuts of beef, including the renowned filet mignon. Each dish is meticulously prepared to bring out the flavors and quality of the meat, creating a memorable dining experience.

While steak takes center stage, Le Cellier Steakhouse also offers a variety of Canadian-inspired dishes that celebrate the country’s rich culinary traditions. From the savory Canadian cheddar cheese soup to the flavorful wild mushroom risotto, the menu features a range of options to suit different tastes.

To complement your meal, Le Cellier Steakhouse boasts an impressive selection of Canadian wines, including some of the finest vintages from the country’s renowned vineyards. The knowledgeable staff can recommend the perfect wine pairing to enhance your dining experience.

One of the hallmarks of Le Cellier Steakhouse is its impeccable service. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensures that every aspect of your dining experience is exceptional. From offering menu recommendations to accommodating special dietary needs, the staff goes above and beyond to make your visit memorable.

Due to its popularity, Le Cellier Steakhouse is in high demand, and reservations are highly recommended. Securing a reservation in advance is advisable to guarantee a spot at this sought-after dining establishment.

In conclusion, Le Cellier Steakhouse at Epcot’s Canada Pavilion is a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the flavors of Canada. With its cozy ambiance, exceptional steaks, Canadian-inspired dishes, fine wines, and impeccable service, it offers a unique dining experience that transports guests to the heart of Canada. Whether you’re a fan of gourmet cuisine, a lover of fine wines, or simply seeking an intimate and memorable dining experience at Disney, Le Cellier Steakhouse promises an unforgettable journey through the diverse and delicious world of Canadian cuisine. Bon appétit!